Scandlines Futura was originally supposed to be delivered last year, but now Scandlines’ new, emission-free ferry, which is to be deployed on the Fehmarn Belt, has set course for Denmark from the Cemre shipyard in Turkey, according to a post on LinkedIn.
After departure from Turkey, the course is set for Algeciras near Gibraltar, where the vessel will bunker and change part of the crew. During the journey across the Mediterranean, the crew will have the opportunity to get to know the ship from stem to stern before it reaches Danish waters.
There may also be a short stop in Zeebrugge, if additional bunkering is needed.
The ferry, which has so far been referred to by the name Futura, is now registered under the name “The Baltic Whale”.
On the first part of the trip, Dual Captain Adnan Nuspahic is at the helm, assisted by Senior Dual Master Martin Woodall and Master Andreas Lund, who together will bring The Baltic Whale the last stretch home.
“It is a historic voyage that we have been looking forward to for a long time. We look forward to soon being able to welcome our new, emission-free pride to Danish waters. A big thank you to everyone who has helped make this dream a reality,” says Michael Guldmann Petersen, COO.
The ferry, which represents the latest technology in green and sustainable maritime operations, must now cover the last nautical miles to Denmark, where it will soon be put into scheduled service.
The Baltic Whale is expected to arrive in Denmark during the coming weeks – a significant step towards more climate-friendly ferry services in Danish waters.
The ferry will be able to sail completely emission-free in both directions on the route across the Fehmarn Belt – with a crossing time of 45 minutes. In Puttgarden, the loading time will be as low as 12 minutes, the shipping company has previously stated.
The Ro-pax ferry has a length of 147.4 meters and has a freight capacity of 1,200 lane meters and space for 140 people.
-emte
